
Every Volkswagen comes with a radiator responsible for cooling the engine. To work correctly, the radiator needs a full, clean supply of coolant, or antifreeze, to optimize its cooling system.It’s important to check your coolant regularly to ensure that it’s at a proper level. Doing so may seem daunting for some drivers around Rancho Santa Margarita and Garden Grove, CA, but it’s easier than you might think.
Follow our step-by-step guide below on how to check the engine coolant inside your Volkswagen. If you need help or have any questions, schedule a service appointment at Norm Reeves Volkswagen Superstore Irvine for assistance.
Checking Your Coolant Levels
Lift the hood of your Volkswagen and locate a clear tank with a blue lid. This tank contains your coolant and should have minimum/maximum lines on it.
- Locate the minimum and maximum lines on the tank. The coolant’s level should be between the two.
- If your coolant is closer to the minimum line, simply refill it. You can pick up coolant at most automotive service centers, but we recommend visiting a dealership to get antifreeze specifically manufactured for your Volkswagen.
- Screw the lid back on and close the hood of your Volkswagen.
- That’s it. Your coolant should be good to go.
Troubleshooting
Checking the coolant level for your Volkswagen is relatively easy, but it’s important to keep the following tips in mind to avoid accidents or mishaps:
Never open the coolant lid while your engine is hot. This is dangerous, and you could wind up getting burned. When checking the coolant level, wait for your engine to cool down.
- Some coolants, like the ones from Volkswagen, are premixed. Others require a 50/50 mix of water. Before topping off your antifreeze, read its label to make sure that it doesn’t need to be mixed into a solution.
- Coolant expands while it heats up, so avoid filling it above the maximum line.
- Avoid skin contact when using coolant. If some gets on your hands or another surface of your body, wash it thoroughly to prevent the coolant from absorbing into your skin.
- Typically, coolant is yellow, red, green, or blue. If it’s rusty, colorless, or has debris floating in it, have your cooling system professionally flushed and add new coolant.
- If your coolant has an oily, sludgy texture, take your vehicle to a Volkswagen dealership immediately. There could be leakage from the internal head gasket, which only a factory-trained technician can fix.
Still Need Help?
If you need help with how to check the engine coolant inside your VW, Norm Reeves Volkswagen Superstore Irvine is happy to assist you. Our certified technicians can walk you through the process step by step and will make sure your coolant level is correct before leaving.
If you’d like further assistance, you can schedule an appointment with us online or by calling our service center. Norm Reeves Volkswagen Superstore Irvine is conveniently located near Rancho Santa Margarita and Garden Grove, California. We’re ready to help drivers like you get back on the road.